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Deadline for Special Combat Pay Approaching

Posted at: 09/18/2013 6:31 PM
By: Brianna Long

(ABC 6 NEWS) -- Thousands of Minnesota Veterans are missing out on a military tax credit, that could be worth hundreds of dollars. It's part of a state tax credit, that gives money back to vets who served in combat.

And for those who served in 2009, that money is about to expire.

As of Wednesday, more than 2,000 qualifying Minnesota veterans have not applied for the Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone. If they don't apply by October 15th, they could miss out on a paycheck worth up to $1,400.

"Back then it was 59 dollars for each month that you spent in a hazard zone," said Scott Metcalf. When he finished a tour in Iraq back in 2008, one of the many things he was welcomed home with was a check from the State of Minnesota.

"When we came back we had to file for the tax credit back then when we filed what it does is for being in a combat zone and you have to use your dd214 and some of your orders," said Metcalf.

Now Scott is out of the military and works with other veterans. He is encouraging them to apply for that same tax credit, now worth $120 dollars for each month served.

"If you spent six months, you're looking at about $700. If you spent 9 months, you're looking at over $1000. I'm not sure how many vets can't use that money right now" said Scott.

"Our veterans and those that are serving in the military have dedicated a tremendous amount of their time and they've made many many sacrifices and its really a way to make sure that they know this benefit is available to them," said Terri Steenblock, the assistant commissioner of individual taxes at the Minnesota Department of Revenue.

It's a benefit that, Scott says, is helpful.

"Being away from the kids or the family, it's kind of nice to be able to go out for an extra supper or else take a vacation to Wisconsin Dells or something like that And you don't have to worry about that, because that wasn't money you were expecting anyway," said Scott.

That October 15th deadline is only for those who served in combat in 2009. However, applications are also open for those who served in 2010, 2011, and 2012.

There are some requirements that veterans have to meet in order to get that money. To see those requirements, and well as get the application, just go to: www.revenue.state.mn.us.